Sanctuary Sermon 03-08-15Sermon Title: "All That He Is: Natural Light"
Scripture: John 9:1-25
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
In our scientific age, we are coming to appreciate more profoundly the power and importance of light. But long before we discovered color spectrums, light years, the theory of relativity, or lasers, Scripture already understood the significance of light. It's the first thing God created. And it's one of the things Jesus says He is.

Sanctuary Sermon 03-01-15Sermon Title: "All That He Is: Manna Man"
Scripture: John 6:25-35
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
We are such relentlessly physical creatures that we even describe emotional, intellectual, and spiritual experiences in physical terms. We talk about feeling empty inside, devouring books, hungering for love, and having an appetite for adventure. How appropriate, then, that Jesus should introduce Himself to us as "the bread of life."
Special music by the Arkeology Kids

Sanctuary Sermon 02-15-15Sermon Title: Driving in the
Surpassing Lane
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Philippians 3:2-14
It's no fun to be stuck in traffic,
driving more slowly than you could
walk. And it's even worse when you
see the cars in some other lane
speeding by. This Sunday, a collector
and an apostle combine to teach us
about "Driving in the Surpassing Lane."

Sanctuary Sermon 02-08-15Sermon Title: "A Word About Yesterday"
Scripture: Exodus 16:13-30
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Some holidays are so big that they cannot be contained in a single day. As a result, the day before certain holidays has become a special day all its own. And that truth reminds us of "A Word About Yesterday."
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 02-01-15Sermon Title: "Testimony from the Grip"
Scripture: Matthew 26:69-75
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
This morning, Pastor David combines with Peter, Jonah, Moses, and Paul to share his testimony about God's love in his life.
Special music by Peg Manuel and Ellen Hanchek.

Sanctuary Sermon 01-25-15Sunday, January 25
Sermon Title: "Anatomy of a Conversion: The Sons of Rechab"
Scripture: Jeremiah 35:1-19
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
They are little known characters in the Bible, but a lot of them are rather famous today. They are "The Sons of Rechab," and they are an example to us all.
Special music by the Bell Choir

Sanctuary Sermon 01-18-15Sermon Title: "Anatomy of a Conversion: The Night the Lights Went Out"
Scripture: Exodus 25:31-40
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
A lot of folks are afraid of the dark. And we mean something undesirable when we refer to being "in the dark." It's important, therefore, to avoid the mistake they made back in the kingdom of Judah on "The Night the Lights Went Out."
Special music by Kristy Shuck and Aaron Duke.

Sanctuary Sermon 01-11-15Sermon Title: "Anatomy of a Conversion: Within Israel's Borders"
Scripture: 2 Kings 15:1-4
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Do you mow your entire lawn, or just part of it? We know the boundaries of our property, and we are careful to take responsibility for all of it. This Sunday, the ancient kings of Israel will challenge us to consider whether we are so clear and careful about the boundaries of our lives.
Special music by Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 01-04-15Sunday, January 4
Sermon Title: "Anatomy of a Conversion"
Scripture: 2 Kings 23:1-7, 19-25
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Have you been converted? Do you need to be? For generations, "conversion" has been a term associated with the Christian experience and life. But what does that look like? Pastor David will begin the New Year with a four-part sermon series on "The Anatomy of Conversion."

Sanctuary Sermon 12-28-14 pt1Sunday, December 28
Sermon Title: "Covenant Renewal Service"
Scripture: 2 Kings 23:1-3
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Are you making New Year's resolutions for yourself going into 2015? On the final Sunday of 2014, we want to do some of that together. And we'll take our cue from King Josiah and John Wesley as we raise our New Year resolve to another level.

Sanctuary Sermon 12-28-14Sunday, December 28
Sermon Title: "Covenant Renewal Service"
Scripture: 2 Kings 23:1-3
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Are you making New Year's resolutions for yourself going into 2015? On the final Sunday of 2014, we want to do some of that together. And we'll take our cue from King Josiah and John Wesley as we raise our New Year resolve to another level.
Special music by Debbie DeGroot.

Sanctuary Sermon 12-21-14In a Moment We'll Sing: The Missing Manger
Rev. David Kalas
Luke 2:8-20
There’s something wrong with one of our favorite Christmas carols. But perhaps that shouldn’t surprise us, for there is something wrong with many Christmases, too. We’ll sing the song, and we’ll consider the risk of “The Missing Manger.” Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 12-14-14In a Moment We'll Sing: Simple Gifts
Rev. David Kalas
Matthew 2:1-12
Historically, Protestant churches have not paid as much attention to Mary as the Roman Catholic Church does. Yet centuries of art and devotional literature are devoted to contemplating Mary the mother of Jesus. And one of our familiar Christmas hymns gives us a lovely glimpse of her, too.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-30-14Rev. Dave Wilkinson
Luke 19:1-10
“Advent Thankfulness”
On this holiday weekend, as we conclude our Thanksgiving festivities and begin Advent, what are you thankful for as you prepare for Christmas? Are you thankful that Jesus is coming to your house?

Sanctuary Sermon 11-23-14Rev. David Kalas
Matthew 13:24-43
“In a Moment We’ll Sing: Hymn of the Harvest”
It’s the time of year when so much around us speaks of harvest. We see signs of it as we drive along the highway. We’ll sing songs about it on this Sunday before Thanksgiving. And we’ll consider Jesus’ story about the harvest of which we are a part.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-16-14Sermon Title: "Salvation by Faith"
Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-9
Guest Preacher: Rev. John Wesley
John Wesley is known for two things: co-founding Methodism and his tremendous work ethic. In the 1700's, when land travel was by walking, horseback or carriage, Wesley logged more than 4,000 miles a year. During his lifetime he preached about 40,000 sermons. Wesley could give today's experts lessons in efficiency. He was a natural organizer and approached everything diligently, especially religion. It was at Oxford University in England that he and his brother, Charles, participated in a Christian club in such an orderly manner that critics called them "methodists", a title which they gladly embraced. Rev. Wesley (a.k.a. Craig Berken) will preach one of his many sermons.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-09-14Sermon Title: Apostle on a Cable Car
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Colossians 1:1-14
We hear a lot of talk about burnout in our day. It may be the number one reason that people quit
things. But for all he went through, the
Apostle Paul showed no signs of burnout. And this Sunday we will learn his secret.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-02-14Sermon Title: "For All The Saints: A Better Place"
Scripture: Revelation 21:1-23
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
We have heard other people say it, and we have said it ourselves. It is comfort to us in our grief, and it is gospel truth. We say that our loved one who has died is "in a better place." And so, on this All Saints' Sunday, we want to consider that better place.
Special music by Dan Heinz.

Sanctuary Sermon 10-26-14Sermon Series: "When It All Belongs to Someone Else"
Sermon Title: "A Question of Caring"
Scripture: Matthew 6:19-34
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
This Sunday, Pastor David concludes his four-part sermon series on stewardship, and our church concludes its financial campaign for 2015. Be sure to bring your pledge cards to church with you this Sunday, as we bring our campaign to a great end and give the coming year a great start.

Sanctuary Sermon 10-19-14Sermon Series: "When It All Belongs to Someone Else"
Sermon Title: "A Thousand Hills"
Scripture: Psalm 50:1-15
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
It's a very strange notion when you stop to think about it: human beings giving something to God. He doesn't need anything that we have. He says so Himself. So then why do we do it?

Sanctuary Sermon 10-12-14Sermon Series: "When It All Belongs to Someone Else"
Sermon Title: "A Dotted Line"
Scripture: Luke 18:18-30
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
We know the story of the rich young man, whom Jesus told to sell all he had in order to give it to the poor. We are troubled by the story, for we wonder what we would do if Jesus said the same thing to us. And so, this Sunday, we will consider the nature of our contract with Him.
Special music by Debbie DeGroot and Ellen Hanchek.

Sanctuary Sermon 10-05-14The old hymn says, “I would be true, for there are those who trust me.” Well, the first person to trust me — and you — was God. We see it in the Garden of Eden. And we see it in our daily life.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-28-14Sermon Title: "Christianity 301: My Vision for Mission"
Scripture: Luke 10:30-32
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Pastor David once resigned from a church over a mission trip. Now, nearly twenty-five years later, he wants to share that story. And he wants to share with this church family his vision for the church's mission.
Special music by Kathy Nelson and Ellen Hanchek.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-21-14Sermon Series: "Three Words from Jesus"
Sermon Title: "The Mission"
Scripture: Acts 1:1-8
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
The parents celebrate when their toddler takes his or her first step. But the beauty and achievement of a single step is short-lived, for both the child and the parent want a second step and a third. Taking one step isn't quite walking for a child. Or for a church.
Special music by the Sanctuary Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-14-14Sermon Series: "Three Words from Jesus"
Sermon Title: "The Challenge"
Scripture: Luke 24:36-49
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
This is the word we don't expect. The first word from Jesus is familiar, and so is the third. But for many Christians — and for many churches — it is the second word that is missing.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-07-14Sermon Series: "Three Words from Jesus"
Sermon Title: "The Invitation"
Scripture: Matthew 11:25-30
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
We begin today a special series of sermons that Pastor David regards as "core." Jesus' instructions to His Church boil down to three words. And during the Sundays in September, we'll explore those words together, and endeavor to apply them to our church.

Sanctuary Sermon 08-24-14Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing"
Sermon Title: "Hymn of the Harbor"
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
A ship bound for Cleveland harbor was dashed upon the rocks in a terrible nighttime storm. Evangelist Dwight L. Moody heard the story, and referenced it in a sermon. Songwriter Philip Bliss heard the sermon, and he wrote a hymn about it. We'll call it "Hymn of the Harbor," but it is really a hymn for us.
Special music by Ross Bilodeau.

Sanctuary Sermon 08-10-14Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing"
Sermon Title: "The Testimony of Wretches"
Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-9
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
"Wretch" is not a word we use very often anymore, and we have probably never heard anyone use it in reference to us. But "wretched" is how the Apostle Paul described himself. And the Anglican minister who wrote perhaps the most famous hymn in the world called himself a wretch, too. This Sunday, we'll sing "The Testimony of Wretches."
Special music by Handcrafted Harmonies, dulcimer trio.

Sanctuary Sermon 08-03-14Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing"
Sermon Title: "The Great Discovery"
Scripture: Psalm 46
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Conventional wisdom says, "Don't put all your eggs in one basket." We're taught that there is security in diversification. But what may be true with finances and investments turns out not to be true in the most significant parts of life. That, when we realize it, is "The Great Discovery."
Special music by Peg Manuel and Ellen Hanchek.

Sanctuary Sermon 07-27-14Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing"
Sermon Title: "Joshua's New Diet"
Scripture: Joshua 5:2-12
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Many of us know what it is to be put on a diet — perhaps by a spouse, or by a doctor, or by personal resolve. Joshua was put on a diet by God. And Pastor David believes that "Joshua's New Diet" brought tears to his eyes.
Special music by Jon Kresin.

Sanctuary Sermon 07-20-14 pt2Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing"
Sermon Title: "Songs That Don't Belong in Church"
Scripture: Psalm 148:1-14
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
For all of the singing we United Methodists do in church, there are certain songs that shouldn't be sung in church. Not because they are bad. But because they really belong outdoors.

Sanctuary Sermon 07-20-14 pt1Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing"
Sermon Title: "Songs That Don't Belong in Church"
Scripture: Psalm 148:1-14
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
For all of the singing we United Methodists do in church, there are certain songs that shouldn't be sung in church. Not because they are bad. But because they really belong outdoors.

Sanctuary Sermon 07-20-14 pt3Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing"
Sermon Title: "Songs That Don't Belong in Church"
Scripture: Psalm 148:1-14
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
For all of the singing we United Methodists do in church, there are certain songs that shouldn't be sung in church. Not because they are bad. But because they really belong outdoors.

Sanctuary Sermon 07-06-14Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing"
Sermon: Hymns for the Nations
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
On Friday of this Independence Day weekend, we will celebrate many things about our nation. And on Sunday of this weekend, we will celebrate God's plans for our nation — and others.
Special music by Alana Gokey and Donna Wilkinson

Sanctuary Sermon 06-29-14Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing"
Sermon: The Hymn of Saints and Angels
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
What do you suppose they sing in heaven? Reginald Heber had an idea. And this Sunday we'll sing his most famous hymn and contemplate what is sung around the Throne.
Special music by Debbie DeGroot.

Sanctuary Sermon 06-15-14Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing: The Hymn of Methodism"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 4:16-21
Have you ever ordered something off of a menu because the picture looked so good? We'll give some thought to the spiritual version of that as we sing together the hymn that Charles Wesley wrote on the anniversary of his conversion.

Sanctuary Sermon 06-01-14Sermon Series: "In a Moment We'll Sing: Singing First Thing"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Psalm 5
Are you a morning person? God is. And we may be very thankful for that!
Special music by the Bell Choir

Sanctuary Sermon 05-25-14Sunday, May 25
New Sermon Series begins: "In a Moment We'll Sing: Surround Sound"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Psalm 96
Some things we do because we love to do them. Other things we may not love to do, but we do them because they're the right thing to do. Still others we do because they're good for us. And still others we do for the sake of someone we love. And then there's singing…

Sanctuary Sermon 05-18-14Sermon: "Songs of Zion"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Psalm 137
The Jews in Babylon were asked to do something that they thought was impossible. It led to one of the most poignant and disturbing passages in the Bible. But you and I may be asked to do the same thing.
Special music by the Sanctuary Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 05-11-14Sermon: "The Best Little Church Around"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Matthew 18:15-20
Pastor David says there is no church he'd rather serve. Still, this Sunday, he admits that there's an even better church right nearby.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 05-04-14Sermon: "A Blessing in Disguise"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Genesis 32:22-28
We see Jacob trick his brother, Esau. We see him trick his father, Isaac. But then, one night, he wrestles with God.

Sanctuary Sermon 04-27-14Sermon: "Close Encounters of the Jesus Kind: Disciple with a Nickname"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: John 20:19-29
What do we know about Peter? A lot! What do we know about Thaddeus? Probably nothing. And what do we know about Thomas? Probably just one thing: his nickname.
Special music by the Sanctuary Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 04-20-14Sermon: "Close Encounters of the Jesus Kind: Disciple of a Dead Lord"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: John 19:38-42
Poor Nicodemus. He didn't understand what Jesus was talking about in John 3. He was evidently too afraid to stick up for Jesus when He was on trial. And it seems like he missed Easter, too.
Special music by the Sanctuary Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 04-13-14Sermon: "Close Encounters of the Jesus Kind: We Would See Jesus"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: John 12:12-26
We have in our mind's eye a picture of the Palm Sunday crowd. Not many faces stand out in that crowd, although we are especially conscious of the palm-waving and singing children. But John catches sight on a few faces in the crowd that the other three Gospel writers overlook.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 04-06-14Sermon: "Close Encounters of the Jesus Kind: Between a Rock and a Hard Place"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: John 8:2-11
She is in a terribly bad place when she meets Jesus. See what He says to her and does for her in that place, for it is good news still for you and me.
Special music by Dan Heinz.

Sanctuary Sermon 03-23-14Sermon: "Close Encounters of the Jesus Kind: Nameless Saint"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: John 6:1-13
We don't even know his name, but he is the key to the one miracle of Jesus reported in all four Gospels. And he is an example to you and me.

Sanctuary Sermon 03-16-14Sermon Title: "Close Encounters of the Jesus Kind: Picking and Choosing"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: John 6:53-69
We are familiar with the stories of the people who followed Jesus. This morning, we want to take a closer look at the folks who walked away from Him.
Special music by the Bell Choir

Sanctuary Sermon 03-09-14Sermon Title: "Close Encounters of the Jesus Kind: The Great Emcee"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: John 3:22-30
This Sunday, Pastor David begins a new sermon series for Lent. "Close Encounters of the Jesus Kind" will explore some of the one-on-one encounters that Jesus had with individuals in the Gospel of John. And, as a result, we will seek a closer encounter with Him, too!
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 03-02-14Sermon: "God's Chisel"
Preacher: Rev. Dave Wilkinson
Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10
From a hardened stone to a masterpiece of art, a sculptor takes a hammer and chisel and begins to chip away what should not be there. In a similar way, when we give our lives to Christ we are saying, "Chisel away, God. I'm all yours." OUCH!
Special music by Becky Covi, Katie Butitta, and Ellen Hanchek.

Sanctuary Sermon 02-23-14Sermon: "God's Arsenal"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: 1 Samuel 17:34-50
What if we could get behind those doors? What if we could see all of the secret weapons? What if we could get a peek into God's arsenal? That is our ambitious endeavor this Sunday.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 02-16-14Sermon: "God's Word to Reasonably Good People"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Matthew 5:17-32, 38-48
Jesus speaks to a lot of different audiences. Some are sick and some outcast. Some are devoted, and others antagonistic. Some are religious, and others live in sin. And then there is His audience in the Sermon on the Mount: you and me.
Special music by the Sanctuary Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 02-09-14 pt.3Sermon: "At the Name"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
This Sunday will feature a special order of worship, full of Scripture and song, as we meditate together on the name of Jesus.

Sanctuary Sermon 02-09-14 pt.2Sermon: "At the Name"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
This Sunday will feature a special order of worship, full of Scripture and song, as we meditate together on the name of Jesus.

Sactuary Sermon 02-09-14 pt.1Sermon: "At the Name"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
This Sunday will feature a special order of worship, full of Scripture and song, as we meditate together on the name of Jesus.

Sanctuary Sermon 02-02-14Sermon: "Praying for Snow"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Psalm 51
Perhaps by the first Sunday in February, snow won't feel like much of a gift to us. Perhaps we will be more inclined to pray for it to go away than to come. But King David will help us to see anew the beauty of the snow.
Special music by Peg Manuel and Ellen Hanchek.

Sanctuary Sermon 01-26-14Sermon: "Witnesses in the Wilderness: When the Wilderness is Behind You"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Deuteronomy 8:11-20
Is there a painful period in your past that you'd just as soon forget? Don't do it. The biblical encouragement is to remember the wilderness.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 01-19-14Sermon: "Witnesses in the Wilderness: Better Than Life"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Psalm 63
David knew the wilderness well, both literally and figuratively. We'll consider his experiences there, as well as the prayer he wrote from the midst of it.
Special music by Ethan Larsen

Sanctuary Sermon 01-12-14Sermon: "Witnesses in the Wilderness: Israel's Journey and Geography"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Psalm 78
This Sunday, Pastor David begins a three-part sermon series on the theme of "wilderness" in Scripture. It represents the time of trial and suffering in our life, and we will hear from the biblical witnesses who went through it.
Special music by Kathy Nelson.

Sanctuary Sermon 01-05-14January 5
Rev. David Kalas
“Heads Will Roll”
Matthew 14:1-12
His name is notorious in Scripture, yet his example is a cautionary tale to us. It's an ancient drama starring Herod, with a cast of strong characters featuring John the Baptist, Herodias, and Salome. Herod handles it badly, and so in the end "Heads Will Roll."

Sanctuary Sermon 12-29-13Sermon: "The Size of Home"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Isaiah 1:2-3, 18-20
We long to be home at Christmas time. And Christmas time makes us long to be home. And so, in these days just after Christmas, we want to consider the surprising size of that home for which we long.

Sanctuary Sermon 12-08-13Matthew 2:1-12
“Your Move”
We call them “the wise men.” But how wise were they? They were wise enough to go from Jerusalem to Bethlehem, and we can learn from them.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 12-01-13Sermon: "A People Prepared"
Preacher: Rev. Dave Wilkinson
Scripture: Luke 1:5-17
The Boy Scout motto is "Be Prepared" but how can you be prepared for something... for someone... like this?
Special music by the Sanctuary Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-24-13Sermon: "Pictures of Plenty"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: John 6:1-13
If the Bible were a scrapbook of photographs, this Sunday is our chance to page through it together. And, like any scrapbook, this one will remind us of a lot of experiences from the past: a natural prelude for Thanksgiving!
Special music by Debbie DeGroot.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-17-13Sermon: "God's Stewardship Campaign"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Matthew 25:14-30
Almost every year in almost every congregation, there is talk about the church's stewardship campaign. Not here, not this year. No, we want to talk, instead, about God's stewardship campaign.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-10-13Sermon: "Music for Grown Ups"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Psalm 98
I don't think there's a close second to the Bible when it comes to the most important book in a Christian's life. But I know what the distant second is, at least. It's the hymnal. And so I'm eager for us to explore it and know it together.
Special music by Heidi Strong

Sanctuary Sermon 11-03-13Sermon Title: Canaan Processional
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Joshua 3:1-6, 14-17
This morning begins a different
kind of sermon series. Rather than
running several consecutive weeks,
Pastor David has in mind a sermon
series that will run several consecutive
years: a series on death, resurrection,
and heaven, which he will preach each
year on All Saints’ Sunday.

Sanctuary Sermon 10-27-13Sermon: "Sing to the Lord a New Song"
Preacher: Rev. Dave Wilkinson
Scripture: Psalm 149
"I don't think there's a close second to the Bible when it comes to the most important book in a Christian's life. But I know what the distant second is, at least. It's the hymnal. And so I'm eager for us to explore it and know it together."

Sanctuary Sermon 10-20-13Sermon Title: The Crowd Around Eli’s Bed
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: 1 Samuel 3:1-10
UMW Sunday
Have you ever wondered why the
Lord doesn’t speak to you the same
way that He spoke to people in Bible
times? Perhaps He has. Indeed,
perhaps He is even today!

Sanctuary Sermon 10-13-13Sermon: "Cutting Corners"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Leviticus 19:23-37
The employee who cuts corners is generally bad news for someone — either the employer or the customer. But in the Old Testament Law, the employee who cuts corners is good news from God and an example to us.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 10-06-13Sermon: "The Green, Green Grass of Home"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 15:11-32
He is one of the most familiar characters in the entire Bible. Familiar because we have read and heard his story so many times. And familiar because we have lived his story ourselves. He is the prodigal son, and we'll endeavor to see the world through his eyes this Sunday.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-29-13Sermon: "The King Who Loved His Enemies"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: 2 Samuel 18:1-5
Hating an enemy comes naturally to us. But what to do when the person who is trying to kill us is someone we love? Such was the plight of King David in this Sunday's poignant story.
Special music by the Sanctuary Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-22-13Sermon: "God's Favorite Vice"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 11:5-10
It may be a pain in the neck in a spouse. It may be a headache in a co-worker. It may be a nuisance in a friend. But according to Scripture, it is evidently God's favorite vice.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-15-13Sermon: "Turnpike Altars"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Genesis 12:1-8
From where you sit in church, you can see the altar. But what about from where you sit in your car? Or office? Or classroom? Or kitchen? The great old patriarch Abraham shows us the way.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-08-13Sermon: "The Church's Little Symphony"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Matthew 18:15-20
According to Jesus, the church has its own little symphony. You and I are encouraged to play our part in it. And when we do, it is music to His ears!

Sanctuary Sermon 09-01-13Sermon: "Posted on the Walls"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Isaiah 62:1-9
Where do we envision ourselves praying? In church? By our beds? At the dinner table? Perhaps in a prayer closet? Well, the Old Testament prophet suggests that we pray atop a city's walls. Such is the sort of spiritual sentinel we'll aspire to be following this Sunday.
Special music by Ross Bilodeau

Sanctuary Sermon 08-25-13 pt2Sunday, August 25
Sermon: "Pictures of Prayer"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 8:40-56
While we have completed our series on The Lord's Prayer, we continue our prayer emphasis this Sunday with a special three-part message. Together we'll explore the intertwined stories of Jairus and the woman with an issue of blood, and we'll find there several meaningful "Pictures of Prayer."

Sanctuary Sermon 08-25-13 pt1Sunday, August 25
Sermon: "Pictures of Prayer"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 8:40-56
While we have completed our series on The Lord's Prayer, we continue our prayer emphasis this Sunday with a special three-part message. Together we'll explore the intertwined stories of Jairus and the woman with an issue of blood, and we'll find there several meaningful "Pictures of Prayer."

Sanctuary Sermon 08-25-13 pt3Sunday, August 25
Sermon: "Pictures of Prayer"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 8:40-56
While we have completed our series on The Lord's Prayer, we continue our prayer emphasis this Sunday with a special three-part message. Together we'll explore the intertwined stories of Jairus and the woman with an issue of blood, and we'll find there several meaningful "Pictures of Prayer."

Sermon 08-18-13Series Theme: "Teach Us to Pray" Sermon: "The Final Word" Preacher: Rev. David Kalas Scripture: Revelation 11:13-17. Fireworks shows always have "the big finish." So do some pieces of music. Parades, too, and sports seasons. Well, The Lord's Prayer has it's own "big finish" -- the biggest finish of all!

Sanctuary Sermon 08-11-13Series Theme: "Teach Us to Pray"
Sermon: "Deliver Us From What?"
Preacher: Rev. Dave Wilkinson
Scripture: Romans 8:31-39
We pray for this every Sunday, yet what is evil and how can we be delivered from it?

Sanctuary Sermon 08-04-13“Teach Us To Pray: The Prayer We Never See Answered” - We know the feeling of bewilderment when our prayers seem to go unanswered. And yet, in some instances, it may be that the Lord did answer our prayer, but we are simply unable to see it. That is surely true, at least, of this part of The Lord's Prayer.
Rev. David Kalas preaching
Scripture: Exodus 13:17-22
Special music by Deb DeGroot.

Sanctuary Sermon 07-21-13Series Theme: "Teach Us to Pray"
Sermon: "Is It Bigger Than a Breadbox?"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Matthew 6:7-15
Our focus during this summer sermon series is to learn how to pray from Jesus. And a part of what His model prayer will teach us is what size our prayers need to be.

Sanctuary Sermon 07-28-13Series Theme: "Teach Us to Pray"
Sermon: "The Forgiveness I May Not Want"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Matthew 18:21-35
I pray for His forgiveness. Over the years, I suppose that I've prayed for His forgiveness more than any other single thing. But do I really want what I'm asking for?
Special music by Stu Smith, Bill Jones and Carol Lehman

Sanctuary Sermon 07-14-13Series Theme: "Teach Us to Pray"
Sermon: "I Keep Seeing Hondas"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Acts 4:7-18
Perhaps you've never really noticed it before. You were vaguely aware that it was there, but never paid much attention to it. Well, this Sunday we're going to point it out. And once we do, we'll keep seeing it all the time and everywhere.
Special music by Kathy Nelson and Ellen Hanchek

Sanctuary Sermon 07-07-13Series Theme: "Teach Us to Pray"
Sermon: "A Revolting Prayer Life"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 11:1-10
With Independence Day still so prominent in our rear view mirrors, we do well to contemplate a different kind of revolution: the kind that Jesus taught His disciples to pray for.
Special music by Carol Harris, Lisa Meyers, Marc Lambrecht

Sanctuary Sermon 06-23-13Series Theme: "Teach Us to Pray"
Sermon: "Where He Does His Best Work"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Matthew 18:15-20
If there is a place where God especially works, that's where I want to be. You, too. Well, we know where that place is -- and we can go there! Jesus teaches us about it when He teaches us to pray.

Sanctuary Sermon 06-09-13Sermon: "A Community Turned Upside Down"
Preacher: Rev. Ray Kotwicki, retired UMC Pastor
Consideration will be given to the characteristics of the little group of Christians following the resurrection of Jesus.
Special music by Nancy Hacker.

Sanctuary Sermon 06-02-13 pt3Sermon: "In Remembrance"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Once again on this first Sunday of the month, Pastor David will invite us to prepare our hearts for Communion with a special service designed around the sacrament.

Sanctuary Sermon 06-02-13 pt1Sermon: "In Remembrance"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Once again on this first Sunday of the month, Pastor David will invite us to prepare our hearts for Communion with a special service designed around the sacrament.

Sanctuary Sermon 06-02-13 pt2Sermon: "In Remembrance"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Once again on this first Sunday of the month, Pastor David will invite us to prepare our hearts for Communion with a special service designed around the sacrament.

Sanctuary Sermon 05-26-13Sermon Title: The Broad Shoulders
of Prayer
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Exodus 28:1-12
It is both the great weight and the
great relief of a person’s prayer life,
and the High Priest in the Old
Testament gives us a marvelous and
memorable picture of what it looks
like.
Special music by Angela's Angels

Sanctuary Sermon 05-12-13Sermon: "Praying for Donkeys and Wolves"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Numbers 22:22-35
As soon as we come to know the Lord for ourselves, we immediately inherit a heartache. For not everyone we love loves Him, too. And what can we do about that?
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 05-05-13Sermon: "The Math of Prayer"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18
We don't typically come to church for math lessons, but it will be important for us this Sunday to discover just what equals what.

Sanctuary Sermon 04-28-13Sermon: "Christianity is a Rel..."
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Matthew 22:34-40
To categorize is to understand. As soon as something has been identified as a virus rather than bacteria, for example, we instantly know important things about it. But then to miscategorize is to misunderstand. And that is just what has happened to Christianity.

Sanctuary Sermon 04-21-13Sermon: "Our Three Basic Food Groups"
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Acts 2:41-47
Our parents used to tell us that, in order to grow up big and strong, we needed to finish our vegetables. Our teachers, meanwhile, taught us about "The Four Basic Food Groups." But that's only about a physical diet. What does it take to grow spiritually? What does a well-balanced diet look like for the human soul?
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 04-14-2013Sermon: "But God..."
Preacher: Rev. Dave Wilkinson
Scripture: Acts 2:22-32
We find ourselves sometimes in pretty difficult situations. Situations that look like there is no hope, no way out, no possibilities for a solution. It's in times like that when our resurrection faith needs to kick in. On the cross Jesus was crucified and killed. His body placed in a tomb. His followers thought that was the end. Peter describes what happened next, "But God raised Him up, having freed Him from death, because it was impossible for Him to be held in its power." Where in your life do you need a "But God…"?
Special music by Angela Kalas & Jonathan Kresin.

Sanctuary Sermon 04-07-13Series: What God Wants to Know
Sermon: "The Most Important Question of All"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: John 21:15-19
Of all the questions that the Lord asks in Scripture, one stands out above the rest. It is the most important question about the most important thing. And He still asks us the question today.
Special music by the Bell Choir

Sanctuary Sermon 03-31-13Sermon: "What God Wants to Know: Shopping in the Wrong Aisle"
Scripture: Luke 24: 1-12
Perhaps you've had the experience yourself. Maybe in a grocery store, a hardware store, or one of the "big box" stores. It's the experience of looking for something in the wrong place. And it's just what some people do with Jesus.
Special music by the Sanctuary Choir

Spring 2013 MessagePastor David invites us to hear special messages in worship this Spring about the essence of the Christian faith and life, as well as to take part in opportunities to join small groups with an emphasis on prayer.

Sanctuary Sermon 03-24-13Series: What God Wants to Know
Sermon: "Drowsy Discipleship"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: Mark 14:32-42
Some questions we answer with our words. Some we answer with our lives. Those may be the most difficult sort of question, and that was the sort that Jesus asked His disciples that night in the garden.

Sanctuary Sermon 03-17-13Series: What God Wants to Know
Sermon: "The Future of Dead Things"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-10
The encouraging teacher says, "There's no such thing as a stupid question." That's a nice sentiment. But the question that God asked Ezekiel might make the teacher think twice, for it seems like a ridiculous question to us.
Special music by the Salvation Army Chicago Staff Band.

Sanctuary Sermon 03-10-13Sermon Title: What God Wants to
Know: The Buddy System
Preacher: Rev. David Kalas
Scripture: Genesis 4: 1-9
Communion
"No man is an island." That was
the famous conclusion of Elizabethan
poet John Donne. And it is also Cain's
unhappy discovery in "The Buddy
System."

Sanctuary Sermon 03-03-13Series: What God Wants to Know
Sermon: "The Great Hypothetical"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: Genesis 18:1-15
Here is a question that is worth writing down. The question that God asked Sarah is not only one that He asks us, but also one we should ask ourselves. It is "The Great Hypothetical."
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 02-24-13Series: What God Wants to Know.
Sermon: "It's Always the Cover-Up"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: Genesis 3:1-13
From a very early age, we demonstrate our reluctance to admit our wrongs. We prefer to deny or to blame. And we human beings have been doing that from the very beginning! Yet the Lord continually comes to us and asks us a question that would set us free.

Sanctuary Sermon 02-17-13Sermon: "Lent Begins with Good News"
Preacher: Dave Wilkinson
Scripture: Romans 10:8-15
When it comes to sharing the Good News of Christ, how are we doing? Deacon Dave will begin Lent with an exploration of just what that good news is, and who that good news is for.
Special music by the choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 02-10-13Sermon: "Illuminated Dust"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:6-10
The old song says, "Jesus wants me for a sunbeam." We have known some sunbeams along the way in our lives. And they give us a sense both for how God works and what He wants us to be.
Special music by John Plier.

Sanctuary Sermon 01-13-13Sermon Series: "Going Places with God"
Sermon: "Penuel"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: Genesis 32:22-31
We go some places to do sightseeing. When Jacob arrived at Penuel, however, he had no idea what he would see there.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 01-06-13Sermon Series: "Going Places with God"
Sermon: "Bethel"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: Genesis 28:10-19
Have you ever come across a church named Luz? Probably not. But how many have you seen named Bethel? When Jacob arrived, the place was called Luz. But when he moved on the next day, it had become Bethel to him.
Special music by Mary Hemminger, Suellen Cantrall and Donna Wilkinson.

Sanctuary Sermon 12-30-12The Old Testament people of God had a charming and exemplary habit. They named places for what God had done there. During the next several weeks, Pastor David will preach a series of sermons about those places with significant names, beginning with a message for the New Year about the spot called "Ebenezer."

Sanctuary Sermon 12-23-12It is one of the fondest and most familiar scenes from the Christmas story. The angels appeared to a group of shepherds in the fields outside Bethlehem that night, and they declared the good tidings that we still need to hear today.

Sanctuary Sermon 12-16-12Theme: "Christmas for Theophilus"
Sermon: "Carrying the Savior"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 1:26-38
Artists, sculptors, poets, and songwriters have all tried to capture the beauty and poignancy of Mary's story. We will contemplate her experience together this Sunday, as well as find our own profound resonance with it.
Special music by the Bell Choir

Sanctuary Sermon 12-09-12Theme: "Christmas for Theophilus"
Sermon: "A Season of Singing"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 2:8-20
No other holiday has inspired the variety or abundance of music that Christmas has. From ʺFrosty the Snowmanʺ to elements of Handel's ʺMessiah,ʺ this is ʺA Season of Singing.ʺ And it has been from the very beginning.
Special music by Elizabeth Keppers

Sanctuary Sermon 12-02-12Theme: "Christmas for Theophilus"
Sermon: "What I Want You to Know"
Preacher: David Kalas
Scripture: Luke 1:1-4
Luke is the master storyteller who is responsible for so much of what we know and love about the Christmas story. He wrote his Gospel for an individual -- a man named Theophilus -- and during the Sundays of this Advent season, Pastor David will explore what Luke wanted Theophilus to know.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-25-12Theme: "Christ the King Sunday"
As the last Sunday of the Christian Church Year, this Sunday is the climax and conclusion of the Church's liturgical journey through the life of Christ and the Gospel message. Deacon Dave Wilkinson will guide us through the Seasons of the Church Year utilizing Scripture and song and help us to prepare for Advent.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-18-12Theme: "Enjoined to Enjoy"
Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:11-21
Some people don't do Thanksgiving well because they are not expressing their gratitude to God. Others of us, however, make a more subtle mistake: we diminish our gratitude with devotion. It's a peculiar but common affliction of the earnest, and we will seek a cure for it this Thanksgiving season.
Special music by Heidi Strong.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-11-12Theme: "For the Love: The Day Jesus Got It Backwards"
Scripture: Luke 12:16-34
We wonder if something got lost in translation. Here is a teaching of Jesus that seems to us to be incorrect. If not, then perhaps we are the ones who need to be corrected.
Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 11-04-12Theme: "For the Love Beyond the Walls"
Scripture: John 20:19-23
The song writer prays: "What brings a smile to You makes my heart lighter, too; hate all that You despise, and love the things You love." Our particular emphasis this Sunday will be the challenge to love the things He loves.
Special music by Ted Yoder.

Sanctuary Sermon 10-28-12Theme: "For the Love Within the Walls"
Scripture: Acts 4:32-37
As much as we love our church buildings, we Christians know that the church is ultimately something more and other than just the building. But that's okay, for we love that, too!

Sanctuary Sermon 10-21-12Theme: "For the Love of Walls"
Scripture: The song writer prays, "What brings a smile to You makes my heart lighter, too; hate all that You despise, and love the things You love." Our particular emphasis this Sunday will be the challenge to love the things He loves.
Special music: Bell Choir

Sanctuary Worship 10-14-12Theme: "A Suitable Place to Live and Work"
Scripture: Deuteronomy 23:9-14
Here is a passage of Scripture that you probably haven't heard read in church or preached on before. Yet Pastor David identifies it as one of his core Scriptures for understanding and defining his work as a minister. Let us consider together what it means for us as a church.
Special music by Zephyr Ciesar and Patrick Marchant with Ellen Hanchek accompanying.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-23-12"Mission Statement: What's All This For?"
Scripture: Genesis 12:1-9
Surrounded by gifts from Jacob, Esau asked, "What's all this for?" Jacob told him the answer. And perhaps God has told us the answer, as well. Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-16-12Title: "Mission Statement: What They See First"
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16
Folks tend to look for international figures and events in the Book of Revelation. It may be that the first thing we see there, however, is ourselves. If so, that's an important insight into our mission. Special music by the Bell Choir.

Sanctaury Sermon 09-09-12During the first four Sundays of this fall season, Pastor David will invite us to consider together as a church family just what our mission is. And we begin the series, "Mission Statement" by pondering "The Church's Product." Special music by John & Jennifer Plier.

Sanctuary Sermon 09-02-12Holy Cheerleading
Cheerleading doesn't look like it used to. But our goal this Sunday is to rewind the clock a very long way in order to catch a glimpse of the kind of cheerleading they did in Old Testament Israel.

Sanctuary Sermon 08-26-12Super Bowl Sunday
Green Bay Packer fans know all about the Super Bowl. The Packers were the first team to win it, and still today its trophy bears the name of the legendary Packer coach, Vince Lombardi. Packer fans are in a good position, therefore, to understand how our salvation was won. Special music by Kristy Shuck.

Sanctuary Sermon 08-19-12The Placekicker's Principle
He is not the highest paid player. He is not the one most sought after for autographs. Yet time and again, he is the one who wins the game for the team. He is the placekicker, and he is our patron saint this Sunday.

Sanctuary Sermon 08-12-12Taking a Timeout
Whether it is half-time, between periods, or the seventh inning stretch, we all need rest. Way back when, God said, "On the seventh day thou shalt rest." The meaning behind it was simple: Take a break. Call a timeout. Find some balance. Recharge. Rev. Dave Wilkinson will help us take a Time Out to focus on Sabbath rest. Special music by Kathy Nelson and Ellen Hanchek.

Sanctuary Sermon 08-05-12Two Minute Warning
We've heard a lot of talk about the ancient civilization that predicted the end of the world in 2012. Well, assuming we're all still here on August 5th, we'll talk that Sunday about what the Bible teaches us about the end of time.
Scripture: Matthew 3:1-6